With the federal lead-content law taking effect on January 4, 2014, the U.S. EPA is offering an informational handout to help companies whose products are certified as lead-free explain new certification marks. There is no mandatory federal requirement for product testing or third-party certification under the Safe Drinking Water Act, but some entities may require certification. Consumers may choose to increase their level of confidence by purchasing products with a mark indicating products have been certified by an accredited third-party certification body as meeting the new lead-free requirement. Products that have not been certified may still meet the new lead-free requirement. If you are unable to determine if a product is lead-free, contacting the manufacturer is the best way to confirm the lead content. Although other states have laws pertaining to the lead content in products, California is currently the only state that has a bill (SB 1334) requiring certification, according to the EPA. However, there may be local laws or entities in other states that require it. Becoming fully effective in the beginning of 2014, the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act defines lead-free as not containing more than 0.2 percent lead when used with solder and flux. Products also must not exceed a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead when used with the wetted surfaces of pipes and pipe and plumbing fittings and fixtures. The new EPA handout also contains a helpful diagram for determining which products must meet the new lead-free requirement.
Resource Portal for I2M Clients, Associates, and Geoscientists
Managed & Built by I2M Consulting, LLC | © 2010-
Managed & Built by I2M Consulting, LLC | © 2010-